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Among the treasure trove of over 40,000 songs that legendary singer SP Balasubrahmaniam had sung, its not just the film songs that are revered among the masses, SPB’s devotional songs are even part of the morning rituals at several households. In certain cases, it was his voice and soulful renditions in praise of deities that led people from various states to go on pilgrimages to certain temples. It was for this magnificent voice that, even the Sabarimala temple Devaswom Board, despite the strict traditions, on-its-own came forward to perform a historic, first-ever Musical Puja for his recovery.&nbsp;

On August 21st, almost two weeks after the hospitalization of SPB, a decline in his condition, an Usha Puja’ followed by a ‘Gaana-archana’ (Musical offering) was performed for Lord Ayyappa, the presiding deity of the temple. Following the Puja rituals, a musician of the temple’s governing board played the Naadhaswaram, (a wind-based instrument) to the tune of SPB’s national award winning song Shankara Naadhashareera from the film Shakaranbharanam(1979). Though this is a film song, it is dedicated to and sung in praise of Lord Shiva.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/in-his-youth-sp-balasubrahmanyam-aspired-for-a-government-job-not-a-career-in-music-330296">Also read:&nbsp;In his youth, SP Balasubrahmanyam aspired for a government job, not a career in music</a>

“This Usha Puja and special ‘Gaana-archana’ is for the recovery and well-being of the great Singer SPB. Cinema stars and commoners are praying for him alike and we have also spoken to his family. Musicians from the temple played three different instruments as a part of the musical offering. Ganesh, a Naadhaswaram player had also played the tune of SPB’s iconic 1979 song which is widely popular across Kerala and all other southern states. Such a musical offering has never been made before, for an individual, at the temple” a Travancore Devaswom Board Official had told WION.&nbsp;

It is notable that the singer had sung several songs in praise of the deity Swami Ayyappa. In 2015, he was awarded the ‘Harivarasanam award’ that is instituted by the Kerala Government and the Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the temple. The award is given to a person for their contribution to propagate the spirit of secularism, equanimity, and universal brotherhood of Sabarimala through the songs.

SPB’s 2015 visit to the temple to receive the award is said to be his maiden visit and his only one. On receiving the award, SPB had said that music was his mother tongue and also sang his national-award winning song from 1979 - Shankara Naadha Shareera, among other devotional songs. His majestic voice is said to have added to the divine feeling in the forests surrounding the hilltop shrine. He had also said that the Sabarimala Ayyappan temple was a universal place of worship where religion, caste, creed, social status did not matter, thus making it a model for the rest of the world.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rip-sp-balasubrahmanyam-celebrities-pay-tribute-to-the-legendary-singer-330168">Also read: RIP SP Balasubrahmanyam: Celebrities pay tribute to the legendary singer</a>

Back then, SPB was nearing 70 years of age and was unable to undertake the harsh 5km uphill trek to the temple. Arrangements were made for SPB to be carried all the way to the temple on a ‘Doli”,(A wooden chair connected to two poles on the sides, which can be lifted by four or six bearers). Before sitting on the Doli or the crude palanquin, SPB, is seen bowing down and touching the feet of the bearers (as a mark of respect and devotion) before they are to carry him to the holy place. This gesture, it appears left all the bystanders in shock, awe and admiration.

It is usual that senior citizens and devotees who cannot trek up are carried on a a crude palanquin, by paying the bearers a small fee, but it is rather unusual for anyone to seek their blessings by touching their feet. A video of this incident from 2015 incident is doing the rounds on instant messaging platforms.

The mortal remains of the legendary singer, multiple-national award winner SP Balasubrahmanyam, who breathed his last on Friday after a 50 day hospitalization due to Covid-19, was laid to rest with Police honours, at the family’s farmhouse in Thamaraipakkam, in the outskirts of Chennai, on Saturday afternoon. The singer’s family performed the final rituals and as per family tradition, lowered the mortal remains into a dug-up pit. Thousands of fans had gathered to bid a teary farewell, to a man whose soulful, passionate renditions had been a part of their joys and sorrows over the last five decades.&nbsp;

While announcing the unfortunate news of his demise,SPB’s son Charan rightly said, “SPB belongs to everyone, he will live on via his songs… Until all of you (fans and well-wishers are here), we consider that Appa(father) is alive”.&nbsp;

Among the treasure trove of over 40,000 songs that legendary singer SP Balasubrahmaniam had sung, its not just the film songs that are revered among the masses, SPB’s devotional songs are even part of the morning rituals at several households.

Among the treasure trove of over 40,000 songs that legendary singer SP Balasubrahmaniam had sung, its not just the film songs that are revered among the masses, SPB’s devotional songs are even part of the morning rituals at several households. In certain cases, it was his voice and soulful renditions in praise of deities that led people from various states to go on pilgrimages to certain temples. It was for this magnificent voice that, even the Sabarimala temple Devaswom Board, despite the strict traditions, on-its-own came forward to perform a historic, first-ever Musical Puja for his recovery. On August 21st, almost two weeks after the hospitalization of SPB, a decline in his condition, an Usha Puja’ followed by a ‘Gaana-archana’ (Musical offering) was performed for Lord Ayyappa, the presiding deity of the temple. Following the Puja rituals, a musician of the temple’s governing board played the Naadhaswaram, (a wind-based instrument) to the tune of SPB’s national award winning song Shankara Naadhashareera from the film Shakaranbharanam(1979). Though this is a film song, it is dedicated to and sung in praise of Lord Shiva. Also read: In his youth, SP Balasubrahmanyam aspired for a government job, not a career in music “This Usha Puja and special ‘Gaana-archana’ is for the recovery and well-being of the great Singer SPB. Cinema stars and commoners are praying for him alike and we have also spoken to his family. Musicians from the temple played three different instruments as a part of the musical offering. Ganesh, a Naadhaswaram player had also played the tune of SPB’s iconic 1979 song which is widely popular across Kerala and all other southern states. Such a musical offering has never been made before, for an individual, at the temple” a Travancore Devaswom Board Official had told WION. It is notable that the singer had sung several songs in praise of the deity Swami Ayyappa. In 2015, he was awarded the ‘Harivarasanam award’ that is instituted by the Kerala Government and the Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the temple. The award is given to a person for their contribution to propagate the spirit of secularism, equanimity, and universal brotherhood of Sabarimala through the songs. SPB’s 2015 visit to the temple to receive the award is said to be his maiden visit and his only one. On receiving the award, SPB had said that music was his mother tongue and also sang his national-award winning song from 1979 - Shankara Naadha Shareera, among other devotional songs. His majestic voice is said to have added to the divine feeling in the forests surrounding the hilltop shrine. He had also said that the Sabarimala Ayyappan temple was a universal place of worship where religion, caste, creed, social status did not matter, thus making it a model for the rest of the world. Also read: RIP SP Balasubrahmanyam: Celebrities pay tribute to the legendary singer Back then, SPB was nearing 70 years of age and was unable to undertake the harsh 5km uphill trek to the temple. Arrangements were made for SPB to be carried all the way to the temple on a ‘Doli”,(A wooden chair connected to two poles on the sides, which can be lifted by four or six bearers). Before sitting on the Doli or the crude palanquin, SPB, is seen bowing down and touching the feet of the bearers (as a mark of respect and devotion) before they are to carry him to the holy place. This gesture, it appears left all the bystanders in shock, awe and admiration. It is usual that senior citizens and devotees who cannot trek up are carried on a a crude palanquin, by paying the bearers a small fee, but it is rather unusual for anyone to seek their blessings by touching their feet. A video of this incident from 2015 incident is doing the rounds on instant messaging platforms. The mortal remains of the legendary singer, multiple-national award winner SP Balasubrahmanyam, who breathed his last on Friday after a 50 day hospitalization due to Covid-19, was laid to rest with Police honours, at the family’s farmhouse in Thamaraipakkam, in the outskirts of Chennai, on Saturday afternoon. The singer’s family performed the final rituals and as per family tradition, lowered the mortal remains into a dug-up pit. Thousands of fans had gathered to bid a teary farewell, to a man whose soulful, passionate renditions had been a part of their joys and sorrows over the last five decades. While announcing the unfortunate news of his demise,SPB’s son Charan rightly said, “SPB belongs to everyone, he will live on via his songs… Until all of you (fans and well-wishers are here), we consider that Appa(father) is alive”.

Man of culture: When Sabarimala broke tradition to perform a musical Puja for SPB

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa met on Saturday for a virtual summit.&nbsp;

While this is the third virtual summit of Indian PM amid the COVID-19 crisis, after meeting with Australian and European Union leadership, it is the first such meet with any leader of a country in the neighbourhood.

The Indian PM congratulated Sri Lankan PM Mahinda Rajapaksa&nbsp;on&nbsp;his recent victory which he said shows "confidence in your leadership" and said that the victory "will give the opportunity to start a new chapter in Indo-Sri Lanka ties". &nbsp;PM Modi said, "under neighbourhood first policy and SAGAR Doctrine, we will give priority to Sri Lanka".&nbsp;

The Sri Lankan PM, recalling the close ties while talking about the COVID-19 crisis, thanked New Delhi for extending support, especially financial support to deal with the economic impact. He said," Indian government supported us...and India is with us and helping us".

Earlier this year, India and Sri Lanka agreed to a $400 million currency swap agreement which will be a relief to Colombo. Both countries are also engaged in debt repayment rescheduling talks.

Mahinda Rajapaksa&nbsp;appreciated India for rapid help during the MT Diamond crisis. Earlier this month, the ship which was on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka caught fire risking a major environmental disaster. The Indian Navy played a key role as one of the key responders to the crisis.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa met on Saturday for a virtual summit. While this is the third virtual summit of Indian PM amid the COVID-19 crisis, after meeting with Australian and European Union leadership, it is the first such meet with any leader of a country in the neighbourhood.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa met on Saturday for a virtual summit. While this is the third virtual summit of Indian PM amid the COVID-19 crisis, after meeting with Australian and European Union leadership, it is the first such meet with any leader of a country in the neighbourhood. The Indian PM congratulated Sri Lankan PM Mahinda Rajapaksa on his recent victory which he said shows "confidence in your leadership" and said that the victory "will give the opportunity to start a new chapter in Indo-Sri Lanka ties". PM Modi said, "under neighbourhood first policy and SAGAR Doctrine, we will give priority to Sri Lanka". The Sri Lankan PM, recalling the close ties while talking about the COVID-19 crisis, thanked New Delhi for extending support, especially financial support to deal with the economic impact. He said," Indian government supported us...and India is with us and helping us". Earlier this year, India and Sri Lanka agreed to a $400 million currency swap agreement which will be a relief to Colombo. Both countries are also engaged in debt repayment rescheduling talks. Mahinda Rajapaksa appreciated India for rapid help during the MT Diamond crisis. Earlier this month, the ship which was on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka caught fire risking a major environmental disaster. The Indian Navy played a key role as one of the key responders to the crisis.

Sri Lanka a priority, says PM Modi during virtual summit with PM Mahinda Rajapaksa

Kolkata has combined its two major attractions — tram and College Street — and created a unique attraction during&nbsp;the pandemic.

The city popular for its libraries and list of famous academicians, has launched a 'tram library' that will operate&nbsp;on the&nbsp;College Street.

The initiative has been launched by state's&nbsp;West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) that operates trams all over the city. This tram will be moving&nbsp;between Shyambazar and Esplanade, traversing 4.5 km on the famous College Street — a street which houses famous universities such as&nbsp;Calcutta University and Presidency University, Scottish Church College, Hindu School, Hare School and the Calcutta Girls’ School.

“The tram library, being introduced by the WBTC that oversees India’s only functional tramways, is a special tram with books, magazines, which can be read while travelling on the tram,” said WBTC's&nbsp;managing director Rajanvir Singh Kapur.

In addition to novels, fictional and non-fictional works from domestic and international writers, this tramcar will also have books on&nbsp;competitive examinations such as the civil services, WBCS, GRE or GMAT.

The tram will also provide free Wi-Fi and air conditioning to make the readers comfortable. Services of online library will also be included soon.&nbsp;“We are also planning book reading sessions, book launches and literary festivals in the tram library in the future,” Kapur said.

Kolkata has combined its two major attractions — tram and College Street — and created a unique attraction during the pandemic. The city popular for its libraries and list of famous academicians, has launched a 'tram library' that will operate on the College Street.

Kolkata has combined its two major attractions — tram and College Street — and created a unique attraction during the pandemic. The city popular for its libraries and list of famous academicians, has launched a 'tram library' that will operate on the College Street. The initiative has been launched by state's West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) that operates trams all over the city. This tram will be moving between Shyambazar and Esplanade, traversing 4.5 km on the famous College Street — a street which houses famous universities such as Calcutta University and Presidency University, Scottish Church College, Hindu School, Hare School and the Calcutta Girls’ School. “The tram library, being introduced by the WBTC that oversees India’s only functional tramways, is a special tram with books, magazines, which can be read while travelling on the tram,” said WBTC's managing director Rajanvir Singh Kapur. In addition to novels, fictional and non-fictional works from domestic and international writers, this tramcar will also have books on competitive examinations such as the civil services, WBCS, GRE or GMAT. The tram will also provide free Wi-Fi and air conditioning to make the readers comfortable. Services of online library will also be included soon. “We are also planning book reading sessions, book launches and literary festivals in the tram library in the future,” Kapur said.

Kolkata launches 'tram library' on College Street

The Indian&nbsp;delegate at&nbsp;the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) walked out of the high-level meeting hall as soon as a recorded address by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan got underway.

The junior&nbsp;diplomat, Mijito Vinito, on Friday picked up his papers, and&nbsp;left the meeting hall as soon as Imran Khan began his usual diatribe against India.

Khan, on expected lines, raked the Kashmir issue and targetted&nbsp;India during his UNGA speech.

To this end, TS Tirumurti, PR of India to UN in New York, posted on Twitter: "PM of Pakistan statement a new diplomatic low - at 75th UN General Assembly. Another litany of vicious falsehood, personal attacks, war mongering and obfuscation of Pakistan’s persecution of its own minorities &amp; of its cross-border terrorism. Befitting Right of Reply awaits."

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PM of Pakistan statement a new diplomatic low - at 75th UN General Assembly. Another litany of vicious falsehood, personal attacks, war mongering and obfuscation of Pakistan’s persecution of its own minorities &amp; of its cross-border terrorism. Befitting Right of Reply awaits.
— PR UN Tirumurti (@ambtstirumurti) <a href="https://twitter.com/ambtstirumurti/status/1309537464013520897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Imran Khan&nbsp;termed New Delhi as a 'state sponsor' of Islamophobia in his UNGA address.

"Muslims continue to be targeted with impunity in many countries. Our shrines are being destroyed; our Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) insulted; the Holy Quran burnt – and all this in the name of freedom of speech," Khan said in his unsual demeanour, adding, "and the one country in the world today where, I am sad to say, the state sponsors Islamophobia, is India. The reason behind this is RSS ideology that unfortunately rules India today."

To this end, Khan urged the Assembly to declare an “International Day to Combat Islamophobia” and build a coalition to fight this scourge.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-targets-india-at-unga-terms-it-state-sponsor-of-islamophobia-330309">Also read |&nbsp;Pak PM targets India at UNGA, terms it 'state sponsor' of Islamophobia</a>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will speak on Saturday at the UNGA at 6.30 pm IST.

The Indian delegate at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) walked out of the high-level meeting hall as soon as a recorded address by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan got underway.

The Indian delegate at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) walked out of the high-level meeting hall as soon as a recorded address by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan got underway. The junior diplomat, Mijito Vinito, on Friday picked up his papers, and left the meeting hall as soon as Imran Khan began his usual diatribe against India. Khan, on expected lines, raked the Kashmir issue and targetted India during his UNGA speech. To this end, TS Tirumurti, PR of India to UN in New York, posted on Twitter: "PM of Pakistan statement a new diplomatic low - at 75th UN General Assembly. Another litany of vicious falsehood, personal attacks, war mongering and obfuscation of Pakistan’s persecution of its own minorities & of its cross-border terrorism. Befitting Right of Reply awaits." PM of Pakistan statement a new diplomatic low - at 75th UN General Assembly. Another litany of vicious falsehood, personal attacks, war mongering and obfuscation of Pakistan’s persecution of its own minorities & of its cross-border terrorism. Befitting Right of Reply awaits. — PR UN Tirumurti (@ambtstirumurti) September 25, 2020 × Imran Khan termed New Delhi as a 'state sponsor' of Islamophobia in his UNGA address. "Muslims continue to be targeted with impunity in many countries. Our shrines are being destroyed; our Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) insulted; the Holy Quran burnt – and all this in the name of freedom of speech," Khan said in his unsual demeanour, adding, "and the one country in the world today where, I am sad to say, the state sponsors Islamophobia, is India. The reason behind this is RSS ideology that unfortunately rules India today." To this end, Khan urged the Assembly to declare an “International Day to Combat Islamophobia” and build a coalition to fight this scourge. Also read | Pak PM targets India at UNGA, terms it 'state sponsor' of Islamophobia Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will speak on Saturday at the UNGA at 6.30 pm IST.

Indian diplomat walks out of UNGA hall as Pak PM mentions Kashmir in speech

With 86,052 new cases in the last 24 hours, India's coronavirus cases are nearing six million-mark, according to the health ministry updates shared on Friday.

There were 1,141 fatalities also confirmed in the 24 hour-period bringing the death toll to 92,290. The total infections stand at &nbsp;5,818,571, including 9,70,116 active cases and 4,756,165 people getting cured/discharged/migrated.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-top-7-million-as-midwest-states-battle-uptick-330068">Coronavirus: Cases top 7 million as Midwest states battle uptick</a>

India's Covid-19 recovery rate stands at 81.74 per cent and the mortality rate remains below 1.6 per cent, according to government figures.&nbsp;

In a positive development, Wednesday was the sixth consecutive day when the number of people recovered in the country was more than the total number of cases detected in the 24-hours period.&nbsp;

In the last few days, India has seen a significant drop in daily cases, but there needs to be more evidence to suggest whether the nation has surpassed the virus's peak or not.&nbsp;

Maharashtra continues to be India's worst-hit state with nearly 300,000 active cases and a death toll of 34,345.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said he had been told by experts that the second wave of Covid-19 in the national capital has peaked.&nbsp;

Globally, the United States is the worst-hit country with over 7 million cases and 200,000 deaths.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

With 86,052 new cases in the last 24 hours, India's coronavirus cases are nearing six million-mark, according to the health ministry updates shared on Friday. There were 1,141 fatalities also confirmed in the 24 hour-period bringing the death toll to 92,290.

With 86,052 new cases in the last 24 hours, India's coronavirus cases are nearing six million-mark, according to the health ministry updates shared on Friday. There were 1,141 fatalities also confirmed in the 24 hour-period bringing the death toll to 92,290. The total infections stand at 5,818,571, including 9,70,116 active cases and 4,756,165 people getting cured/discharged/migrated. Also read | Coronavirus: Cases top 7 million as Midwest states battle uptick India's Covid-19 recovery rate stands at 81.74 per cent and the mortality rate remains below 1.6 per cent, according to government figures. In a positive development, Wednesday was the sixth consecutive day when the number of people recovered in the country was more than the total number of cases detected in the 24-hours period. In the last few days, India has seen a significant drop in daily cases, but there needs to be more evidence to suggest whether the nation has surpassed the virus's peak or not. Maharashtra continues to be India's worst-hit state with nearly 300,000 active cases and a death toll of 34,345. Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said he had been told by experts that the second wave of Covid-19 in the national capital has peaked. Globally, the United States is the worst-hit country with over 7 million cases and 200,000 deaths.

India reports 86,052 new cases as total infections near 6 million-mark

India&nbsp;raised the issue of misuse of the blasphemy law in Pakistan against minorities.

According to India, currently at least 80 people in prison in Pakistan for the crime of "blasphemy", with at least half of them facing life sentences or the death penalty. At least 42 cases pertaining to blasphemy were registered across Pakistan in a single month.

Indian diplomat to UN in Geneva, Senthil Kumar said, "Pakistan’s deplorable human rights records and discriminatory treatment of its minorities has been a cause of persistent concern for the international community"

Explaining, "In Pakistan, Blasphemy laws are being used against religious minorities such as Christians, Hindus and Sikhs, to violate their human rights and dignity.".

Misuse of blasphemy laws in Pakistan is something that has been talked about at the international level, especially when it comes to the case of Christian Pakistani women Asia Bibi who later got asylum in Canada.

Senthil Kumar highlighted, "Enforced disappearances, state violence and forced mass displacements, harassment, extrajudicial killings, army operations, torture, kill-and-dumps, torture camps, detention centers, military camps" being a "regular features in Baluchistan".&nbsp;

India cited the example of the disappearance of Rashid Hussain in December 2018, and the killing of journalist Sajid Hussain Baloch after he went missing in March 2020.

He said, "nobody knows the fate of missing 47,000 Baloch and 35,000 Pashtuns till date. Sectarian violence has claimed more than 500 Hazaras in Baluchistan and more than 100,000 Hazaras have fled Pakistan."

He also slammed Islamabad for a similar situation in Pakistan occupied Kashmir saying, "before preaching to others Pakistan must remember that terrorism is the worst form of human rights abuse and a crime against humanity" and "the world doesn’t need lessons on human rights from a country which has been known as nursery and epicentre of Terrorism".

India raised the issue of misuse of the blasphemy law in Pakistan against minorities. According to India, currently at least 80 people in prison in Pakistan for the crime of "blasphemy", with at least half of them facing life sentences or the death penalty.

India raised the issue of misuse of the blasphemy law in Pakistan against minorities. According to India, currently at least 80 people in prison in Pakistan for the crime of "blasphemy", with at least half of them facing life sentences or the death penalty. At least 42 cases pertaining to blasphemy were registered across Pakistan in a single month. Indian diplomat to UN in Geneva, Senthil Kumar said, "Pakistan’s deplorable human rights records and discriminatory treatment of its minorities has been a cause of persistent concern for the international community" Explaining, "In Pakistan, Blasphemy laws are being used against religious minorities such as Christians, Hindus and Sikhs, to violate their human rights and dignity.". Misuse of blasphemy laws in Pakistan is something that has been talked about at the international level, especially when it comes to the case of Christian Pakistani women Asia Bibi who later got asylum in Canada. Senthil Kumar highlighted, "Enforced disappearances, state violence and forced mass displacements, harassment, extrajudicial killings, army operations, torture, kill-and-dumps, torture camps, detention centers, military camps" being a "regular features in Baluchistan". India cited the example of the disappearance of Rashid Hussain in December 2018, and the killing of journalist Sajid Hussain Baloch after he went missing in March 2020. He said, "nobody knows the fate of missing 47,000 Baloch and 35,000 Pashtuns till date. Sectarian violence has claimed more than 500 Hazaras in Baluchistan and more than 100,000 Hazaras have fled Pakistan." He also slammed Islamabad for a similar situation in Pakistan occupied Kashmir saying, "before preaching to others Pakistan must remember that terrorism is the worst form of human rights abuse and a crime against humanity" and "the world doesn’t need lessons on human rights from a country which has been known as nursery and epicentre of Terrorism".

At UN, India raises the issue of misuse of blasphemy laws by Pakistan against minorities

Terrorists attacked a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party deployed at South Kashmir`s mini secretariat here.

No casualties or injuries reported so far and the area has been cordoned off.More details awaited.

On Thursday morning, a CRPF personnel succumbed to injuries sustained after terrorists attacked a CRPF party in Kaisermulla area at Chadoora in Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Terrorists attacked a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party deployed at South Kashmir`s mini secretariat here. No casualties or injuries reported so far and the area has been cordoned off.

Terrorists attacked a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party deployed at South Kashmir`s mini secretariat here. No casualties or injuries reported so far and the area has been cordoned off.More details awaited. On Thursday morning, a CRPF personnel succumbed to injuries sustained after terrorists attacked a CRPF party in Kaisermulla area at Chadoora in Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Terrorists attack security forces in Kashmir; no casualties reported

Three farm bills, which have been passed by the Indian parliament, are expected to create a major impact on Indian agriculture and agro-trade. Agriculture sector that employs a large part of India's&nbsp;population. When farm bills passed,&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;called the passage of the bills a 'watershed' moment.

But on Friday, farmers in India blocked roads and railway tracks in a protest against the new legislation that they say could pave the way for the government to stop buying grain at guaranteed prices, leaving them at the mercy of private buyers.

Will the new farm bills help Indian farmer? Or will this step be counterproductive? Are farm bills good or bad? What are the pros and cons of the farm bills? Let's take a look.

The three farm bills passed by the parliament are --

<ol>
	<li>Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill</li>
	<li>Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill ( Also referred to as APMC Bypass Bill)</li>
	<li>Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill</li>
</ol>

Provisions of these bills may result in elimination of the monopoly of government-run APMCs (Agricultural Produce Market Committees). As per older laws and provisions, farmers have to sell their produce at APMCs. It was mandatory that the first sale of agri-produce took place in the market yard of the 'mandis'.

APMCs were formed by the Government of India to shield farmers from big retailers and to ensure that retail prices did not get too high.

As per the new bills, farmers will now be free to sell their produce even to private buyers, including big companies. Farm bills passed in the Indian parliament give farmers the freedom to sell their crop anywhere in India.

In APMCs, licensed middlemen brokered the deal between farmers and the government. Over the years, these middlemen monopolised their authority in APMCs and cartelisation occurred. Farmers were often at the mercy of these middlemen.

The newly passed farm bills are likely to break the monopoly of these middlemen as it gives farmers the freedom to carry out the first sale outside APMCs.

PROS of new farm bills

<ul>
	<li>Farmers will have a choice to sell their produce to anyone without APMC getting in the way</li>
	<li>Monopoly of APMC will be destroyed.</li>
	<li>The changes proposed will take out the middlemen who essentially run APMC.</li>
	<li>Payment will be made to farmers in three days</li>
</ul>

Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said the bills would promote inter-state trade. Farmers will have more options when it comes to selling their agricultural produce.

Some farmer groups, however, are up against the new provisions. The protests are especially strong in Punjab.

States like Punjab, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh have strong market systems based on APMCs. The farmers there do not want a change in well-oiled machinery that is functional.

Another point critics of the farm bills passed by the parliament are raising is that of the Minimum Support Price (MSP).

MSP is the minimum price guaranteed by the government to farmers in APMCs. This is supposed to be a safety net for farmers and it ensures that selling prices don't go too low for farmers.

The Centre currently fixes MSPs for 23 farm commodities --

<ul>
	<li>Seven oilseeds (Groundnut, Soybean, Sesamum, Safflower, Nigerseed, Rapseed-mustard, sunflower)</li>
	<li>Seven cereals &nbsp;(Wheat, padyy, Bajra, Jowar, Barley, Ragi, Maize)</li>
	<li>Five pulses ( Arhar/Tur, Chana, Moong, Urad, Masur)</li>
	<li>Four commercial crops (Cotton, Sugarcane, Raw jute, Copra)</li>
	<li>Tomar has said that APMC system will continue and will not be dismantled overnight. However, critics of farm bill 2020 say that there is no clarity on MSP.</li>
</ul>

MSP, unlike the Public Distribution System, is not a right. There was no official legal standing to MSP even as per older laws. But successive governments announced MSPs from time-to-time as a way to provide a safety net to the farmers.

Now, farmers and critics fear that eliminating monopoly of APMCs will soon pave way for abolishing MSP.

CONS:

<ul>
	<li>Farmers will be at the mercy of big corporations during dealings. If at all MSP is abolished, farmers will lose the bargaining chip and a last-ditch sale option they've always had.</li>
	<li>Critics of the farm bills say there is not much government regulatory oversight in the new provisions.</li>
	<li>There are still doubts over the way the government can comprehensively intervene in case farmers get cheated from private buyers.</li>
	<li>Examples across the globe shows that when farmers were exposed to market forces, their incomes decreased rather than increased.</li>
</ul>

To this end, the main opposition Congress party has called the bills “black law” and “pro-corporate”. Its top leader Rahul Gandhi accused Modi of “making farmers ‘slaves’ of the capitalists”.&nbsp;

Keeping the protests in consideration, police in various states have tightened security in the hope of heading off any violence, especially around New Delhi.

Three farm bills, which have been passed by the Indian parliament, are expected to create a major impact on Indian agriculture and agro-trade. Agriculture sector that employs a large part of India's population.

Three farm bills, which have been passed by the Indian parliament, are expected to create a major impact on Indian agriculture and agro-trade. Agriculture sector that employs a large part of India's population. When farm bills passed, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the passage of the bills a 'watershed' moment. But on Friday, farmers in India blocked roads and railway tracks in a protest against the new legislation that they say could pave the way for the government to stop buying grain at guaranteed prices, leaving them at the mercy of private buyers. Will the new farm bills help Indian farmer? Or will this step be counterproductive? Are farm bills good or bad? What are the pros and cons of the farm bills? Let's take a look. The three farm bills passed by the parliament are -- Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill ( Also referred to as APMC Bypass Bill) Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill Provisions of these bills may result in elimination of the monopoly of government-run APMCs (Agricultural Produce Market Committees). As per older laws and provisions, farmers have to sell their produce at APMCs. It was mandatory that the first sale of agri-produce took place in the market yard of the 'mandis'. APMCs were formed by the Government of India to shield farmers from big retailers and to ensure that retail prices did not get too high. As per the new bills, farmers will now be free to sell their produce even to private buyers, including big companies. Farm bills passed in the Indian parliament give farmers the freedom to sell their crop anywhere in India. In APMCs, licensed middlemen brokered the deal between farmers and the government. Over the years, these middlemen monopolised their authority in APMCs and cartelisation occurred. Farmers were often at the mercy of these middlemen. The newly passed farm bills are likely to break the monopoly of these middlemen as it gives farmers the freedom to carry out the first sale outside APMCs. PROS of new farm bills Farmers will have a choice to sell their produce to anyone without APMC getting in the way Monopoly of APMC will be destroyed. The changes proposed will take out the middlemen who essentially run APMC. Payment will be made to farmers in three days Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said the bills would promote inter-state trade. Farmers will have more options when it comes to selling their agricultural produce. Some farmer groups, however, are up against the new provisions. The protests are especially strong in Punjab. States like Punjab, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh have strong market systems based on APMCs. The farmers there do not want a change in well-oiled machinery that is functional. Another point critics of the farm bills passed by the parliament are raising is that of the Minimum Support Price (MSP). MSP is the minimum price guaranteed by the government to farmers in APMCs. This is supposed to be a safety net for farmers and it ensures that selling prices don't go too low for farmers. The Centre currently fixes MSPs for 23 farm commodities -- Seven oilseeds (Groundnut, Soybean, Sesamum, Safflower, Nigerseed, Rapseed-mustard, sunflower) Seven cereals (Wheat, padyy, Bajra, Jowar, Barley, Ragi, Maize) Five pulses ( Arhar/Tur, Chana, Moong, Urad, Masur) Four commercial crops (Cotton, Sugarcane, Raw jute, Copra) Tomar has said that APMC system will continue and will not be dismantled overnight. However, critics of farm bill 2020 say that there is no clarity on MSP. MSP, unlike the Public Distribution System, is not a right. There was no official legal standing to MSP even as per older laws. But successive governments announced MSPs from time-to-time as a way to provide a safety net to the farmers. Now, farmers and critics fear that eliminating monopoly of APMCs will soon pave way for abolishing MSP. CONS: Farmers will be at the mercy of big corporations during dealings. If at all MSP is abolished, farmers will lose the bargaining chip and a last-ditch sale option they've always had. Critics of the farm bills say there is not much government regulatory oversight in the new provisions. There are still doubts over the way the government can comprehensively intervene in case farmers get cheated from private buyers. Examples across the globe shows that when farmers were exposed to market forces, their incomes decreased rather than increased. To this end, the main opposition Congress party has called the bills “black law” and “pro-corporate”. Its top leader Rahul Gandhi accused Modi of “making farmers ‘slaves’ of the capitalists”. Keeping the protests in consideration, police in various states have tightened security in the hope of heading off any violence, especially around New Delhi.

India's new farm bills: What's good, what may not be

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with former Afghan vice president Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum covering various aspects of the historic initiative to bring back peace and stability in Afghanistan.

The visit of Dostum, an influential Afghan leader and former warlord, to India comes over a week after the Taliban and the Afghan government began direct talks for the first time to end 19 years of war that has killed tens of thousands of people and ravaged various parts of the country.

Following the meeting, Jaishankar tweeted that India remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process.

"Glad to meet Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum. Exchanged views on developments in Afghanistan and the larger region. His vast experience and deep insights were evident. India remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process," he said.

Dostum also met Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla during which issues like constitutional order and rights of all sections of Afghan society figured, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.

"FS @harshvshringl met Field Marshal @ARashidDostu &amp; listened to his insights on the #Afghan peace process and evolving situation. Constitutional order &amp; rights of all sections of Afghan society were also discussed. India has conveyed it's long term commitment to #Afghanistan," Srivastava tweeted.

India has been a major stakeholder in peace and stability of Afghanistan. It has already invested USD two billion in aid and reconstruction activities in the country.

On September 12, an Indian delegation attended the inaugural ceremony of the intra-Afghan negotiations in Doha while Jaishankar joined it through video conference.

India has been supporting a national peace and reconciliation process which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled.

India has been keenly following the evolving political situation after the US signed a peace deal with the Taliban in February. The deal provided for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, effectively drawing curtains to Washington's 18-year war in the country. 
The US has lost over 2,400 soldiers in Afghanistan since late 2001.

India has also been maintaining that care should be taken to ensure that any such process does not lead to any "ungoverned spaces" where terrorists and their proxies can relocate.

India has been calling upon all sections of the political spectrum in Afghanistan to work together to meet the aspirations of all people in that country including those from the minority community for a prosperous and safe future.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with former Afghan vice president Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum covering various aspects of the historic initiative to bring back peace and stability in Afghanistan.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with former Afghan vice president Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum covering various aspects of the historic initiative to bring back peace and stability in Afghanistan. The visit of Dostum, an influential Afghan leader and former warlord, to India comes over a week after the Taliban and the Afghan government began direct talks for the first time to end 19 years of war that has killed tens of thousands of people and ravaged various parts of the country. Following the meeting, Jaishankar tweeted that India remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process. "Glad to meet Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum. Exchanged views on developments in Afghanistan and the larger region. His vast experience and deep insights were evident. India remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process," he said. Dostum also met Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla during which issues like constitutional order and rights of all sections of Afghan society figured, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. "FS @harshvshringl met Field Marshal @ARashidDostu & listened to his insights on the #Afghan peace process and evolving situation. Constitutional order & rights of all sections of Afghan society were also discussed. India has conveyed it's long term commitment to #Afghanistan," Srivastava tweeted. India has been a major stakeholder in peace and stability of Afghanistan. It has already invested USD two billion in aid and reconstruction activities in the country. On September 12, an Indian delegation attended the inaugural ceremony of the intra-Afghan negotiations in Doha while Jaishankar joined it through video conference. India has been supporting a national peace and reconciliation process which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled. India has been keenly following the evolving political situation after the US signed a peace deal with the Taliban in February. The deal provided for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, effectively drawing curtains to Washington's 18-year war in the country. The US has lost over 2,400 soldiers in Afghanistan since late 2001. India has also been maintaining that care should be taken to ensure that any such process does not lead to any "ungoverned spaces" where terrorists and their proxies can relocate. India has been calling upon all sections of the political spectrum in Afghanistan to work together to meet the aspirations of all people in that country including those from the minority community for a prosperous and safe future.

Jaishankar holds talks with former Afghan vice prez Abdul Rashid Dostum

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for an "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) is an important initiative, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said on Thursday.

"The economic package under this self-reliant India initiative, which was announced in the aftermath of the coronavirus shock, has supported the Indian economy and mitigated significant downside risks, so we do see that initiative as having been important," Gerry Rice, Director, Communications Department, IMF, told reporters at his fortnightly news conference here.

Looking ahead, as the prime minister has said, for India to play a more important part in the global economy, pursuing policies that stimulate by improving the efficiency and competitiveness of the economy is critical, he said, responding to a question on Modi's call for an "Aatmanirbhar Bharat".

"To achieve the stated 'Make For The World' goal in India, the priority is to remain focussed on policies that can help further integrate India in the global value chain, including through trade, investment and technology," Rice said.

Responding to another question, he said the IMF's joint study with the NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Finance shows that to achieve a high performance in health-related sustainable development goals, India would need to gradually increase its total spending in the healthcare sector from the current 3.7 per cent of the GDP.

"More generally, beyond the health sector, comprehensive structural reforms are needed to achieve more inclusive and sustainable medium-term growth.

"We have talked about those reforms before -- infrastructure, land reforms, product market and labour market reforms, increasing female labour force participation, access to finance and better jobs," Rice said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for an "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) is an important initiative, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said on Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for an "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) is an important initiative, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said on Thursday. "The economic package under this self-reliant India initiative, which was announced in the aftermath of the coronavirus shock, has supported the Indian economy and mitigated significant downside risks, so we do see that initiative as having been important," Gerry Rice, Director, Communications Department, IMF, told reporters at his fortnightly news conference here. Looking ahead, as the prime minister has said, for India to play a more important part in the global economy, pursuing policies that stimulate by improving the efficiency and competitiveness of the economy is critical, he said, responding to a question on Modi's call for an "Aatmanirbhar Bharat". "To achieve the stated 'Make For The World' goal in India, the priority is to remain focussed on policies that can help further integrate India in the global value chain, including through trade, investment and technology," Rice said. Responding to another question, he said the IMF's joint study with the NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Finance shows that to achieve a high performance in health-related sustainable development goals, India would need to gradually increase its total spending in the healthcare sector from the current 3.7 per cent of the GDP. "More generally, beyond the health sector, comprehensive structural reforms are needed to achieve more inclusive and sustainable medium-term growth. "We have talked about those reforms before -- infrastructure, land reforms, product market and labour market reforms, increasing female labour force participation, access to finance and better jobs," Rice said.

Modi's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' important initiative: IMF

The newly appointed prime minister of Japan, Yoshihide Suga, batted for Quad grouping in his first conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Quad grouping consists of Japan, India, Australia and the United States.

The Japan government readout about the conversation said that it lasted for 25 minutes.&nbsp;

"Prime Minster Suga stated that he would like to promote cooperation in such multilateral mechanism as Japan-Australia-India-US meetings and the United Nations," it said.

The comments come as Tokyo is all set to host a meeting of Quad foreign ministers in October. This will be the second such meeting. The first happened last year on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

Both leaders spoke at length on Indo-Pacific. The Indian readout of the meet said both leaders "emphasised that the economic architecture of a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region" must be premised on "resilient supply chains, and in this context, welcomed cooperation between India, Japan and other like-minded countries."

During the conversation, the bullet train which Japan is helping to build was also discussed. Ties between the two countries have seen significant development in the last few years, especially under the leadership for former Japanese prime minister Abe Shinzo. He had developed a personal connection with Modi.

PM Modi is the sixth head of India the new Japan prime minister has spoken to. Since taking charge on September 16, 2020, Yoshihide Suga has spoken to US President Donald Trump, Australian PM Scott Morrison, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, President of the European Council Charles Michel and British PM Boris Johnson.

The newly appointed prime minister of Japan, Yoshihide Suga, batted for Quad grouping in his first conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Quad grouping consists of Japan, India, Australia and the United States.

The newly appointed prime minister of Japan, Yoshihide Suga, batted for Quad grouping in his first conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Quad grouping consists of Japan, India, Australia and the United States. The Japan government readout about the conversation said that it lasted for 25 minutes. "Prime Minster Suga stated that he would like to promote cooperation in such multilateral mechanism as Japan-Australia-India-US meetings and the United Nations," it said. The comments come as Tokyo is all set to host a meeting of Quad foreign ministers in October. This will be the second such meeting. The first happened last year on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. Both leaders spoke at length on Indo-Pacific. The Indian readout of the meet said both leaders "emphasised that the economic architecture of a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region" must be premised on "resilient supply chains, and in this context, welcomed cooperation between India, Japan and other like-minded countries." During the conversation, the bullet train which Japan is helping to build was also discussed. Ties between the two countries have seen significant development in the last few years, especially under the leadership for former Japanese prime minister Abe Shinzo. He had developed a personal connection with Modi. PM Modi is the sixth head of India the new Japan prime minister has spoken to. Since taking charge on September 16, 2020, Yoshihide Suga has spoken to US President Donald Trump, Australian PM Scott Morrison, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, President of the European Council Charles Michel and British PM Boris Johnson.

New Japan PM bats for quad in first conversation with Indian counterpart

A research team led by an Indian-American has won USD 100,000 prize for developing a quick, non-invasive, mobile phone-based system to detect infectious diseases, inflammation and nutritional deficiencies in saliva.

The Cornell researchers' team led by Saurabh Mehta was awarded the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Technology Accelerator Challenge prize that encourages the development of new, non-invasive diagnostic technologies important for global health.

According to Mehta, technologies using salivary biomarkers could revolutionise how conditions such as malaria and iron deficiency are identified and addressed, especially in settings where access to primary health care and traditional, laboratory-based tests is limited.

"This concept provides noninvasive, rapid and accurate results anywhere in the world. A breakthrough in such mobile diagnostics could provide untold health benefits for vulnerable populations globally," Mehta said.

For the group's saliva-based test, a small 3D-printed adapter is clipped to a mobile phone and synced with a mobile app. The app uses the phone's camera to image test strips to detect malaria, iron deficiency and inflammation, with results in under 15 minutes.

The proposal builds on the FeverPhone and NutriPhone platforms developed by the team at Cornell's Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Global Health and Technology (INSiGHT). The technologies, funded by the NIH and the National Science Foundation, evaluate infections and nutritional status using blood.

"These types of potentially world-changing innovations are only possible when you foster strong multidisciplinary research and a culture of innovation, such as we do here at Cornell," said David Erickson, another team member.

The team was led by Mehta, associate professor of global health, epidemiology and nutrition in the Division of Nutritional Sciences, in the College of Human Ecology (CHE), and the Department of Global Development in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS).&nbsp;

A research team led by an Indian-American has won USD 100,000 prize for developing a quick, non-invasive, mobile phone-based system to detect infectious diseases, inflammation and nutritional deficiencies in saliva.

A research team led by an Indian-American has won USD 100,000 prize for developing a quick, non-invasive, mobile phone-based system to detect infectious diseases, inflammation and nutritional deficiencies in saliva. The Cornell researchers' team led by Saurabh Mehta was awarded the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Technology Accelerator Challenge prize that encourages the development of new, non-invasive diagnostic technologies important for global health. According to Mehta, technologies using salivary biomarkers could revolutionise how conditions such as malaria and iron deficiency are identified and addressed, especially in settings where access to primary health care and traditional, laboratory-based tests is limited. "This concept provides noninvasive, rapid and accurate results anywhere in the world. A breakthrough in such mobile diagnostics could provide untold health benefits for vulnerable populations globally," Mehta said. For the group's saliva-based test, a small 3D-printed adapter is clipped to a mobile phone and synced with a mobile app. The app uses the phone's camera to image test strips to detect malaria, iron deficiency and inflammation, with results in under 15 minutes. The proposal builds on the FeverPhone and NutriPhone platforms developed by the team at Cornell's Institute for Nutritional Sciences, Global Health and Technology (INSiGHT). The technologies, funded by the NIH and the National Science Foundation, evaluate infections and nutritional status using blood. "These types of potentially world-changing innovations are only possible when you foster strong multidisciplinary research and a culture of innovation, such as we do here at Cornell," said David Erickson, another team member. The team was led by Mehta, associate professor of global health, epidemiology and nutrition in the Division of Nutritional Sciences, in the College of Human Ecology (CHE), and the Department of Global Development in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS).

Indian-American-led research team wins $100,000 NIH prize for phone-based saliva test

India hit out at Pakistan, telling the United Nations Human Right Council (UNHRC) that UN-listed international terror groups have been collecting funds in name of charity to finance terrorism.

Calling the development a "disturbing trend", India's first secretary to the United Nations in Geneva Pawan Badhe said, "The collection of funds by proscribed terrorist outfits ostensibly for undertaking charitable activities are in reality being used to finance terror."

The national investigation agency or NIA recently said Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF) founded by United Nations-listed terrorist Hafiz Saeed has been supporting terror activities in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking at the debate "Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention", Pawan Badhe highlighted how "malevolent attempts by terrorists" has been observed whose aim is "to exploit the financial and emotional distress caused by the lock-downs to disturb the cohesiveness of societies".

"Terror groups have also exhorted supporters to target security forces and health workers."

India also raised the issue of fake news and detailed how "increased presence of people online and on social media has been targeted by terrorists to disseminate misinformation through hate speeches, fake news and doctored videos" with the intent to "entice and establish links with vulnerable individuals and recruit them in their cadres."

India also called on states to cooperate to fight against terrorism and called it "a grossest affront to the enjoyment of the inalienable human right to life and to live in peace and security"

India hit out at Pakistan, telling the United Nations Human Right Council (UNHRC) that UN-listed international terror groups have been collecting funds in name of charity to finance terrorism.

India hit out at Pakistan, telling the United Nations Human Right Council (UNHRC) that UN-listed international terror groups have been collecting funds in name of charity to finance terrorism. Calling the development a "disturbing trend", India's first secretary to the United Nations in Geneva Pawan Badhe said, "The collection of funds by proscribed terrorist outfits ostensibly for undertaking charitable activities are in reality being used to finance terror." The national investigation agency or NIA recently said Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF) founded by United Nations-listed terrorist Hafiz Saeed has been supporting terror activities in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at the debate "Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention", Pawan Badhe highlighted how "malevolent attempts by terrorists" has been observed whose aim is "to exploit the financial and emotional distress caused by the lock-downs to disturb the cohesiveness of societies". "Terror groups have also exhorted supporters to target security forces and health workers." India also raised the issue of fake news and detailed how "increased presence of people online and on social media has been targeted by terrorists to disseminate misinformation through hate speeches, fake news and doctored videos" with the intent to "entice and establish links with vulnerable individuals and recruit them in their cadres." India also called on states to cooperate to fight against terrorism and called it "a grossest affront to the enjoyment of the inalienable human right to life and to live in peace and security"

Funds being collected by proscribed terror outfits in name of charity: India hits out at Pak at UNHRC

The academic session 2020-21 for the first-year students will commence from November 1, as per the latest guidelines by the University Grants Commission (UGC), which has directed the educational institutions to complete merit/entrance-based admission process by October 2020.

However, in case of delay in the declaration of results of the qualifying examinations, the universities may start the session from November 18, says the latest guidelines issued by the UGC.Union Minister for Education Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank announced this on Twitter on Friday, saying, "In view of the #COVID19 Pandemic, @ugc_india has issued guidelines on Examinations &amp; Academic Calendar for UG &amp; PG Students for the Session 2020-21."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In view of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> Pandemic, <a href="https://twitter.com/ugc_india?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ugc_india</a> has issued guidelines on Examinations &amp; Academic Calendar for UG &amp; PG Students for the Session 2020-21. 
 
For more details, visit the UGC website: <a href="https://t.co/HTMOrA0jNl">https://t.co/HTMOrA0jNl</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UGCGuidelines?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UGCGuidelines</a> <a href="https://t.co/1i7xhumDk7">pic.twitter.com/1i7xhumDk7</a>
— Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank (@DrRPNishank) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrRPNishank/status/1309371213437779968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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According to the guidelines, the last date for admissions to fill up the remaining vacant seats will be November 31.

On the other hand, the institutions, where admissions are sole though entrance tests, and which have completed the necessary requirements or are likely to do so in near future, have been directed to start their academic sessions for the first year under-graduate and post-graduate students at the earliest. They can accept the relevant documents of qualifying examinations by December 31, said the UGC guidelines.

Further, the UGC has suggested the institutions to conduct the first semester/year examinations between March 8 and 26, 2021.

It has also asked the universities to follow six-day week pattern for the academic sessions 2020-21 and 2021-22, besides curtailing breaks to compensate for the loss of classes.

Terming the session as a special case, the UGC has also ordered the institutions to refund full admission fees on account of cancellation of admissions/migration of students up to November 30. Thereafter, the institutions can deduct not more than Rs 1,000 as processing fee for cancellations/withdrawal up to December 31.

Notwithstanding these, every college/university has been directed to follow the mandatory guidelines regarding academic activities in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The academic session 2020-21 for the first-year students will commence from November 1, as per the latest guidelines by the University Grants Commission (UGC), which has directed the educational institutions to complete merit/entrance-based admission process by October 2020.

The academic session 2020-21 for the first-year students will commence from November 1, as per the latest guidelines by the University Grants Commission (UGC), which has directed the educational institutions to complete merit/entrance-based admission process by October 2020. However, in case of delay in the declaration of results of the qualifying examinations, the universities may start the session from November 18, says the latest guidelines issued by the UGC.Union Minister for Education Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank announced this on Twitter on Friday, saying, "In view of the #COVID19 Pandemic, @ugc_india has issued guidelines on Examinations & Academic Calendar for UG & PG Students for the Session 2020-21." In view of the #COVID19 Pandemic, @ugc_india has issued guidelines on Examinations & Academic Calendar for UG & PG Students for the Session 2020-21. For more details, visit the UGC website: https://t.co/HTMOrA0jNl#UGCGuidelines pic.twitter.com/1i7xhumDk7 — Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank (@DrRPNishank) September 25, 2020 × According to the guidelines, the last date for admissions to fill up the remaining vacant seats will be November 31. On the other hand, the institutions, where admissions are sole though entrance tests, and which have completed the necessary requirements or are likely to do so in near future, have been directed to start their academic sessions for the first year under-graduate and post-graduate students at the earliest. They can accept the relevant documents of qualifying examinations by December 31, said the UGC guidelines. Further, the UGC has suggested the institutions to conduct the first semester/year examinations between March 8 and 26, 2021. It has also asked the universities to follow six-day week pattern for the academic sessions 2020-21 and 2021-22, besides curtailing breaks to compensate for the loss of classes. Terming the session as a special case, the UGC has also ordered the institutions to refund full admission fees on account of cancellation of admissions/migration of students up to November 30. Thereafter, the institutions can deduct not more than Rs 1,000 as processing fee for cancellations/withdrawal up to December 31. Notwithstanding these, every college/university has been directed to follow the mandatory guidelines regarding academic activities in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

First-year classes for session 2020-21 to begin from November: UGC

A division bench of the Delhi High Court on Friday deferred to September 28 hearing on a petition filed by the Delhi government challenging a single-judge bench order imposing an interim stay on the reservation of 80 per cent ICU beds in a group of top private hospitals in the national capital exclusively for COVID-19 patients.

The division bench of Chief Justice DN Patel and Justice Prateek Jalan listed the matter for further hearing on September 28.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/admitted-to-hospital-for-covid-19-delhi-deputy-cm-manish-sisodia-also-diagnosed-with-dengue-330037">Also read:&nbsp;Admitted to hospital for COVID-19, Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia also diagnosed with dengue</a>

The Delhi government, in a petition filed through additional standing counsel Sanjoy Ghose against the interim order dated September 22 passed by a single-judge bench, said that the bench has not appreciated the categoric submissions made on behalf of the appellant regarding the surge in the number of COVID-19 patients, and the dynamic efforts being undertaken by the appellant to tackle the ever-changing nature situation regarding healthcare and medical facilities in the NCT of Delhi, on account of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A single-judge bench had on Tuesday this week stayed the recent order passed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led government instructing private hospitals in Delhi to reserve 80 per cent of ICU beds for COVID-19 patients, till the next date of hearing on a petition moved by the "Association of Healthcare Providers India".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-86052-new-cases-as-total-infections-near-6-million-mark-330100">Also read:&nbsp;India reports 86,052 new cases as total infections near 6 million-mark</a>

The petition filed before the single-judge through advocate Sanyam Khetarpal and Narita Yadav said that the order has been passed in an arbitrary, unfair and illegal manner without even realizing the difficulties that may be faced by the said private nursing homes and hospitals.

"Moreover, no consideration has been given to the fact that the non-COVID-19 patients may suffer fatal consequences owing to their prolonged or sudden illness and due to the non-availability of ICU/HDU beds they may not be able to endure the disease," said the petition filed by Association of Healthcare Providers India.

The plea had said that private hospitals routinely get patients with heart attacks, grievous injuries, acute pulmonary disorders, complex fractures, and even other conditions like cancer, transplant and cardiac patients which require urgent interventions and critical care.

"Reserving 80% beds in the ICU will deny urgent care to seriously ill patients, requiring vital surgical interventions and critical care. These beds, which may constitute 15 per cent to 20per cent of overall ICU bed capacity in some of the hospitals, are not usable for COVID-19 patients since very rarely does a COVID-19 patient of that age requires critical care," it had added.&nbsp;

A division bench of the Delhi High Court on Friday deferred to September 28 hearing on a petition filed by the Delhi government challenging a single-judge bench order imposing an interim stay on the reservation of 80 per cent ICU beds in a group of top private hospitals in the national capital exclusively for COVID-19 patients.

A division bench of the Delhi High Court on Friday deferred to September 28 hearing on a petition filed by the Delhi government challenging a single-judge bench order imposing an interim stay on the reservation of 80 per cent ICU beds in a group of top private hospitals in the national capital exclusively for COVID-19 patients. The division bench of Chief Justice DN Patel and Justice Prateek Jalan listed the matter for further hearing on September 28. Also read: Admitted to hospital for COVID-19, Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia also diagnosed with dengue The Delhi government, in a petition filed through additional standing counsel Sanjoy Ghose against the interim order dated September 22 passed by a single-judge bench, said that the bench has not appreciated the categoric submissions made on behalf of the appellant regarding the surge in the number of COVID-19 patients, and the dynamic efforts being undertaken by the appellant to tackle the ever-changing nature situation regarding healthcare and medical facilities in the NCT of Delhi, on account of the COVID-19 pandemic. A single-judge bench had on Tuesday this week stayed the recent order passed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led government instructing private hospitals in Delhi to reserve 80 per cent of ICU beds for COVID-19 patients, till the next date of hearing on a petition moved by the "Association of Healthcare Providers India". Also read: India reports 86,052 new cases as total infections near 6 million-mark The petition filed before the single-judge through advocate Sanyam Khetarpal and Narita Yadav said that the order has been passed in an arbitrary, unfair and illegal manner without even realizing the difficulties that may be faced by the said private nursing homes and hospitals. "Moreover, no consideration has been given to the fact that the non-COVID-19 patients may suffer fatal consequences owing to their prolonged or sudden illness and due to the non-availability of ICU/HDU beds they may not be able to endure the disease," said the petition filed by Association of Healthcare Providers India. The plea had said that private hospitals routinely get patients with heart attacks, grievous injuries, acute pulmonary disorders, complex fractures, and even other conditions like cancer, transplant and cardiac patients which require urgent interventions and critical care. "Reserving 80% beds in the ICU will deny urgent care to seriously ill patients, requiring vital surgical interventions and critical care. These beds, which may constitute 15 per cent to 20per cent of overall ICU bed capacity in some of the hospitals, are not usable for COVID-19 patients since very rarely does a COVID-19 patient of that age requires critical care," it had added.

HC defers Delhi govt's plea against interim stay on reservation of ICU beds in private hospitals

The Election Commission of India on Friday announced the assembly election dates of one of the largest states Bihar.&nbsp;

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora said more than 700,000 hand santisers, 600,000 PPE kits, 670,000 units of face-shields and 2.3 million pair of hand gloves have been arranged for the polls.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-86052-new-cases-as-total-infections-near-6-million-mark-330100">India reports 86,052 new cases as total infections near 6 million-mark</a>

The election will be in three phases and the voting for the first phase will be on October 28, with the declaration of results on November 10.&nbsp;

The voting for the second and third phase will be on November 3 and 7 respectively.

The election commission said in the first stage, voting will be held for 71 seats, followed by next stages where polling will take place for 94 and 78 seats.&nbsp;

The election commissioner also said the candidates can file their nomination online and the security money can also be transferred in online mode.&nbsp;

The door-to-door campaigning is also restricted to three people and not more than a convoy of five cars can be used for campaigning.&nbsp;

Also, only 1,000 voters will be allowed to cast their vote at a polling station, which was earlier 1,500.&nbsp;

He also said Covid-19 patients will also be able to cast their vote on the last day of voting at their respective polling stations under the supervision of health authorities. He said this facility is provided to them apart from the the option of postal ballot already extended to such people.&nbsp;

Earlier, the apex court on Friday refused to postpone the upcoming Bihar elections in the wake of coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India on Friday announced the assembly election dates of one of the largest states Bihar. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora said more than 700,000 hand santisers, 600,000 PPE kits, 670,000 units of face-shields and 2.

The Election Commission of India on Friday announced the assembly election dates of one of the largest states Bihar. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora said more than 700,000 hand santisers, 600,000 PPE kits, 670,000 units of face-shields and 2.3 million pair of hand gloves have been arranged for the polls. Also read | India reports 86,052 new cases as total infections near 6 million-mark The election will be in three phases and the voting for the first phase will be on October 28, with the declaration of results on November 10. The voting for the second and third phase will be on November 3 and 7 respectively. The election commission said in the first stage, voting will be held for 71 seats, followed by next stages where polling will take place for 94 and 78 seats. The election commissioner also said the candidates can file their nomination online and the security money can also be transferred in online mode. The door-to-door campaigning is also restricted to three people and not more than a convoy of five cars can be used for campaigning. Also, only 1,000 voters will be allowed to cast their vote at a polling station, which was earlier 1,500. He also said Covid-19 patients will also be able to cast their vote on the last day of voting at their respective polling stations under the supervision of health authorities. He said this facility is provided to them apart from the the option of postal ballot already extended to such people. Earlier, the apex court on Friday refused to postpone the upcoming Bihar elections in the wake of coronavirus pandemic.

India gears up for first election amid pandemic as dates for Bihar Assembly polls announced

The Bombay High Court on Friday took suo motu cognizance of the Bhiwandi building collapse incident, in which at least 41 people lost their lives, and initiated a public interest litigation in the matter.

A division bench of Chief Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice GS Kulkarni made the Maharashtra government, relevant municipal corporations and others respondent in the matter.

"Deeply pained and saddened by some of the recent incidents of the collapse of residential buildings resulting in the loss of lives, we desire to initiate this suo motu public interest litigation," the bench said.

The High Court observed that it was reported that the building was not included in the list of dangerous structures so notified by the Bhiwandi Nizampur Municipal Corporation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-asks-lawyers-association-seeking-interest-free-loans-to-file-affidavit-proving-credentials-329911">Also read:&nbsp;SC asks lawyers' association seeking interest free loans to file affidavit proving credentials</a>

"It is further reported that in the past three years, several notices were issued in respect of this building by the Municipal Corporation and the land owner/developer of the building, Sayyed Ahmed Jilani was called upon to get the building vacated due to its dilapidated condition.... If this is true, it is unfortunate that no action was taken by the Municipal Authorities to get the building vacated," the bench noted.

"It is also reported that this building was constructed sometime in the year 1984 before the Municipal Corporation was formed and later on, two illegal floors came to be constructed. However, no action was taken by any of the Municipal Authorities and its officers," it added.

Taking note of the collapse of the three-storeyed building in Raigad district last month, the bench said that this is not a solitary incident. Such incidents of building collapse are happening frequently, almost every year and more particularly during the monsoon months, it said.

The bench said that it has some questions in the matter, including whether the municipal bodies are completely helpless to prevent such collapses and prevent loss of lives, and/or if there is any machinery available with such municipal bodies to prevent such occurrences.

It said that another question in its mind is if there is a mechanism in place for the structural audit of the buildings?As many as 41 people lost their lives while 25 others were rescued from the debris of a three-storey building, which had collapsed at around 3:40 am on September 21 in Patel Compound of Maharashtra's Thane district.&nbsp;

The Bombay High Court on Friday took suo motu cognizance of the Bhiwandi building collapse incident, in which at least 41 people lost their lives, and initiated a public interest litigation in the matter.

The Bombay High Court on Friday took suo motu cognizance of the Bhiwandi building collapse incident, in which at least 41 people lost their lives, and initiated a public interest litigation in the matter. A division bench of Chief Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice GS Kulkarni made the Maharashtra government, relevant municipal corporations and others respondent in the matter. "Deeply pained and saddened by some of the recent incidents of the collapse of residential buildings resulting in the loss of lives, we desire to initiate this suo motu public interest litigation," the bench said. The High Court observed that it was reported that the building was not included in the list of dangerous structures so notified by the Bhiwandi Nizampur Municipal Corporation. Also read: SC asks lawyers' association seeking interest free loans to file affidavit proving credentials "It is further reported that in the past three years, several notices were issued in respect of this building by the Municipal Corporation and the land owner/developer of the building, Sayyed Ahmed Jilani was called upon to get the building vacated due to its dilapidated condition.... If this is true, it is unfortunate that no action was taken by the Municipal Authorities to get the building vacated," the bench noted. "It is also reported that this building was constructed sometime in the year 1984 before the Municipal Corporation was formed and later on, two illegal floors came to be constructed. However, no action was taken by any of the Municipal Authorities and its officers," it added. Taking note of the collapse of the three-storeyed building in Raigad district last month, the bench said that this is not a solitary incident. Such incidents of building collapse are happening frequently, almost every year and more particularly during the monsoon months, it said. The bench said that it has some questions in the matter, including whether the municipal bodies are completely helpless to prevent such collapses and prevent loss of lives, and/or if there is any machinery available with such municipal bodies to prevent such occurrences. It said that another question in its mind is if there is a mechanism in place for the structural audit of the buildings?As many as 41 people lost their lives while 25 others were rescued from the debris of a three-storey building, which had collapsed at around 3:40 am on September 21 in Patel Compound of Maharashtra's Thane district.

Bombay HC takes suo motu cognizance of Bhiwandi building collapse

The Prime Minister stressed on the need for states to strengthen their tracing- tracking strategy to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus infection.

PM Modi Meets Chief Ministers of seven states with high COVID cases

Minister of State for Railways Suresh Angadi passed away Wednesday at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. Angadi was undergoing treatment for Covid-19. He was 65.

Railways MoS Suresh Angadi dies of Covid-19

India recorded 86,508 new coronavirus cases and 1,129 deaths in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-minister-of-state-for-railways-suresh-angadi-succumbs-to-covid-19-at-aiims-329743">Also Read:&nbsp;Union Minister of State for Railways Suresh Angadi succumbs to COVID-19 at AIIMS</a>

The total case COVID-19 cases in the country have gone up to 5,732,519 including 9,66,382 active cases, the ministry added.

The death toll due to the virus has climbed to 91,149.

The ministry added that 46,74,988 patients have been cured and discharged.

Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said that 6,74,36,031 virus samples have been tested nationwide so far with 11,56,569 samples tested on Wednesday.

In Pune, 3,886 coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours along with 84 deaths.

Maharashtra prison authorities said 2,061 prisoners and 421 jail staff have tested positive for coronavirus across the state with six prisoners and five jail staff dieing of the virus.

In Andaman and Nicobar islands, twenty-one new coronavirus cases were reported taking the total number of cases to 3,712 with 166 active cases taking the total number of fatalities due to the virus to 52.

Jharkhand reported 1,141 new coronavirus cases and three deaths on Wednesday taking the total number of COVID-19 cases to 75,089 including 648 deaths.

In Haryana, there were 1,986 new COVID-19 cases and 27 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 1,16,856 including 19,276 active cases.

 
&nbsp;

India recorded 86,508 new coronavirus cases and 1,129 deaths in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said on Thursday. Also Read: Union Minister of State for Railways Suresh Angadi succumbs to COVID-19 at AIIMS The total case COVID-19 cases in the country have gone up to 5,732,519 including 9,66,382 active cases, the ministry added.

India recorded 86,508 new coronavirus cases and 1,129 deaths in the last 24 hours, the health ministry said on Thursday. Also Read: Union Minister of State for Railways Suresh Angadi succumbs to COVID-19 at AIIMS The total case COVID-19 cases in the country have gone up to 5,732,519 including 9,66,382 active cases, the ministry added. The death toll due to the virus has climbed to 91,149. The ministry added that 46,74,988 patients have been cured and discharged. Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said that 6,74,36,031 virus samples have been tested nationwide so far with 11,56,569 samples tested on Wednesday. In Pune, 3,886 coronavirus cases were reported in the last 24 hours along with 84 deaths. Maharashtra prison authorities said 2,061 prisoners and 421 jail staff have tested positive for coronavirus across the state with six prisoners and five jail staff dieing of the virus. In Andaman and Nicobar islands, twenty-one new coronavirus cases were reported taking the total number of cases to 3,712 with 166 active cases taking the total number of fatalities due to the virus to 52. Jharkhand reported 1,141 new coronavirus cases and three deaths on Wednesday taking the total number of COVID-19 cases to 75,089 including 648 deaths. In Haryana, there were 1,986 new COVID-19 cases and 27 deaths in the last 24 hours taking the total number of cases to 1,16,856 including 19,276 active cases.

India reports 86,508 new coronavirus cases; infections rise to over 5.7 million

Facing numerous terror threats, 357 members of the Afghan minority community have&nbsp;arrived in India with help of Indian mission in Kabul.

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava in response to a question said, "We have been receiving requests from Hindus and Sikhs in Afghanistan to grant permission to settle down in India. And the request has gone up after the attack in the Gurdwara in March 2020."

Explaining, “We see targeted persecution of minority community members by terrorist and their sponsors and this is a matter of serious concern. Now to ensure the safety and well-being, our mission in Kabul has been in contact with them and facilitated smooth arrival from Afghanistan despite COVID related restrictions. So far 357 members of the minority community have arrived from Afghanistan to India in the lockdown and Indian Sikh community here is assisting their stay comfortable in India."

The March 25 attack on Gurdwara Har Rai Sahib saw the death of 24 Afghan Sikhs and one Indian Sikh. 
 
This was one of the worst attack on Afghan Sikh community since the 2018 Jalalabad attack in which 19 people died, mostly Sikh.

Earlier this year the first batch of 11 Afghan Sikhs keen to come to India landed in Delhi in June. This included Delhi based Afghan Sikh Nidan Singh who was abducted but later released.10 of the 11 Afghan Sikhs were the family members of Sikhs killed in Kabul Gurudwara terror attack.

Facing numerous terror threats, 357 members of the Afghan minority community have arrived in India with help of Indian mission in Kabul. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava in response to a question said, "We have been receiving requests from Hindus and Sikhs in Afghanistan to grant permission to settle down in India.

Facing numerous terror threats, 357 members of the Afghan minority community have arrived in India with help of Indian mission in Kabul. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava in response to a question said, "We have been receiving requests from Hindus and Sikhs in Afghanistan to grant permission to settle down in India. And the request has gone up after the attack in the Gurdwara in March 2020." Explaining, “We see targeted persecution of minority community members by terrorist and their sponsors and this is a matter of serious concern. Now to ensure the safety and well-being, our mission in Kabul has been in contact with them and facilitated smooth arrival from Afghanistan despite COVID related restrictions. So far 357 members of the minority community have arrived from Afghanistan to India in the lockdown and Indian Sikh community here is assisting their stay comfortable in India." The March 25 attack on Gurdwara Har Rai Sahib saw the death of 24 Afghan Sikhs and one Indian Sikh. This was one of the worst attack on Afghan Sikh community since the 2018 Jalalabad attack in which 19 people died, mostly Sikh. Earlier this year the first batch of 11 Afghan Sikhs keen to come to India landed in Delhi in June. This included Delhi based Afghan Sikh Nidan Singh who was abducted but later released.10 of the 11 Afghan Sikhs were the family members of Sikhs killed in Kabul Gurudwara terror attack.

357 members of Afghanistan minority community have arrived in India: MEA  

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was diagnosed with dengue on Thursday, a day after testing positive for COVID-19.

However, his health condition is stable, a top official from the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital, in which Sisodia is admitted, informed.

Sisodia was diagnosed with Dengue while receiving treatment at the government-run LNJP hospital where he was admitted on Wednesday after he complained of persistent fever and falling levels of Oxygen, the official added.

On September 14, Sisodia had tweeted to announce his positive status and warn those who came in contact with him.

(With inputs from ANI)

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was diagnosed with dengue on Thursday, a day after testing positive for COVID-19. However, his health condition is stable, a top official from the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital, in which Sisodia is admitted, informed.

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was diagnosed with dengue on Thursday, a day after testing positive for COVID-19. However, his health condition is stable, a top official from the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital, in which Sisodia is admitted, informed. Sisodia was diagnosed with Dengue while receiving treatment at the government-run LNJP hospital where he was admitted on Wednesday after he complained of persistent fever and falling levels of Oxygen, the official added. On September 14, Sisodia had tweeted to announce his positive status and warn those who came in contact with him. (With inputs from ANI)

Admitted to hospital for COVID-19, Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia also diagnosed with dengue

In a rare development, both India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval were present at the Saudi National Day celebrations in Delhi. The development shows the growing closeness between India and Saudi Arabia.

The last time India's EAM was present at National Day celebration of any country was in 2018 when the then external affairs minister late Sushma Swaraj was the chief guest at Russian National Day at the Russian embassy in Delhi.&nbsp;

Speaking at the 90th National day celebrations, Saudi Arabia's envoy to India Saud M Al Sati called India a "close friend and an important strategic partner", one with whom the country has "cultural, socioeconomic engagement and strategic partnership" based on "mutual respect and shared interests.".

The country is India’s fourth-largest trade partner and a major source of energy as India imports around 18 per cent&nbsp;of its crude oil requirement from the Kingdom.

He added,"Our investment in India is growing and our engagement is expanding" and "there is a huge untapped potential available in merchandise trade, particularly in non-oil trade and we are enhancing cooperation in commercial, investment, cultural and technological fields."

Trade between the 2 countries has increased significantly and current bilateral trade stands at $34 billion. The country hosts 2.6 million-strong Indian community, with 200,000 Indians visiting it in 2019 for the Hajj pilgrimage.&nbsp;

Sati also highlighted the "bonds" both countries share which are "diverse and deeply rooted and will continue its importance as we pursue our mutual quest for prosperous future for all."

Ties between the two countries have been growing and 2019 saw the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to India, followed by the visit of Indian PM Modi to the country in October. Saudi Arabia is the host of G20 grouping and later this year will host the summit.&nbsp;

In a rare development, both India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval were present at the Saudi National Day celebrations in Delhi.

In a rare development, both India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval were present at the Saudi National Day celebrations in Delhi. The development shows the growing closeness between India and Saudi Arabia. The last time India's EAM was present at National Day celebration of any country was in 2018 when the then external affairs minister late Sushma Swaraj was the chief guest at Russian National Day at the Russian embassy in Delhi. Speaking at the 90th National day celebrations, Saudi Arabia's envoy to India Saud M Al Sati called India a "close friend and an important strategic partner", one with whom the country has "cultural, socioeconomic engagement and strategic partnership" based on "mutual respect and shared interests.". The country is India’s fourth-largest trade partner and a major source of energy as India imports around 18 per cent of its crude oil requirement from the Kingdom. He added,"Our investment in India is growing and our engagement is expanding" and "there is a huge untapped potential available in merchandise trade, particularly in non-oil trade and we are enhancing cooperation in commercial, investment, cultural and technological fields." Trade between the 2 countries has increased significantly and current bilateral trade stands at $34 billion. The country hosts 2.6 million-strong Indian community, with 200,000 Indians visiting it in 2019 for the Hajj pilgrimage. Sati also highlighted the "bonds" both countries share which are "diverse and deeply rooted and will continue its importance as we pursue our mutual quest for prosperous future for all." Ties between the two countries have been growing and 2019 saw the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to India, followed by the visit of Indian PM Modi to the country in October. Saudi Arabia is the host of G20 grouping and later this year will host the summit.

Jaishankar, NSA Doval at Saudi National Day in Delhi; Saudi envoy calls India 'important strategic partner'

India has slammed Pakistan yet again for raking Kashmir at multiple forums on Thursday saying its "typical of Pakistan" to use multilateral platforms of SAARC and CICA "to raise bilateral and contentious issues"

Ministry of external affairs said this is "inconsistent with the principles and charter of such organizations and their meetings" but "what else can be expected of a country that indulges in cross-border terrorism as a part of its state policy."

SAARC foreign ministers and Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures or CICA FMs met virtually on Thursday and at both the meetings Pakistani foreign minister raised Kashmir. While at CICA it was direct mentioning, at SAARC it was by diplomatic usage of words by recalling UNSC resolutions.

At SAARC India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar without mentioning Pakistan's name listed out the challenges faced by the region. He listed cross border, obstructionism for connectivity and trade as main challenges for SAARC, in all of which Islamabad has a major role to play.

On CICA, MEA in its right of reply said, "Pakistan has misused another forum by continuing its spurious narrative about India" and "The Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been and will remain an integral part of India. Pakistan has no locus standi to comment on India’s internal affairs."

Interestingly, Pakistan also raked Kashmir at the United Nations Human rights council and got a strong rebuttal by India.&nbsp;

Vimarsh Aryan, India's first secretary at the United Nations in Geneva speaking at the council said, " In these extraordinary times of pandemic when everyone is putting on a mask for the safety and protection of fellow human beings, Pakistan, unfortunately, is using another kind of pernicious mask to masquerade as a champion of human rights that it itself violates egregiously by torturing and persecuting minorities."

India has slammed Pakistan yet again for raking Kashmir at multiple forums on Thursday saying its "typical of Pakistan" to use multilateral platforms of SAARC and CICA "to raise bilateral and contentious issues" Ministry of external affairs said this is "inconsistent with the principles and charter of such organizations and their meetings" but "what else can be expected of a country that indulges in cross-border terrorism as a part of its state policy.

India has slammed Pakistan yet again for raking Kashmir at multiple forums on Thursday saying its "typical of Pakistan" to use multilateral platforms of SAARC and CICA "to raise bilateral and contentious issues" Ministry of external affairs said this is "inconsistent with the principles and charter of such organizations and their meetings" but "what else can be expected of a country that indulges in cross-border terrorism as a part of its state policy." SAARC foreign ministers and Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures or CICA FMs met virtually on Thursday and at both the meetings Pakistani foreign minister raised Kashmir. While at CICA it was direct mentioning, at SAARC it was by diplomatic usage of words by recalling UNSC resolutions. At SAARC India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar without mentioning Pakistan's name listed out the challenges faced by the region. He listed cross border, obstructionism for connectivity and trade as main challenges for SAARC, in all of which Islamabad has a major role to play. On CICA, MEA in its right of reply said, "Pakistan has misused another forum by continuing its spurious narrative about India" and "The Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been and will remain an integral part of India. Pakistan has no locus standi to comment on India’s internal affairs." Interestingly, Pakistan also raked Kashmir at the United Nations Human rights council and got a strong rebuttal by India. Vimarsh Aryan, India's first secretary at the United Nations in Geneva speaking at the council said, " In these extraordinary times of pandemic when everyone is putting on a mask for the safety and protection of fellow human beings, Pakistan, unfortunately, is using another kind of pernicious mask to masquerade as a champion of human rights that it itself violates egregiously by torturing and persecuting minorities."

"Typical of Pakistan...”, says India as Islamabad rakes Kashmir at SAARC, CICA 

India has said that Pakistan has no legal basis to convert Pakistan occupied Kashmir's Gilgit-Baltistan region as its 5th province and the action will be "void ab initio".&nbsp;

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava in response to a WION question said, “Any action by Pakistan to alter the status of the militarily occupied so-called “Gilgit-Baltistan” has no legal basis whatsoever and is totally void ab-initio."

Reiterating its "clear and consistent" position on PoK, MEA said, "The entire territories of the UTs of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been and are an integral part of India and would remain so. Pakistan has no locus standi to comment on India’s internal matters."

Pakistan has announced it will conduct elections in PoK's Gilgit-Baltistan area in November.&nbsp;

Hectic political activity is taking place in Pakistan over plans to make the area the country's 5th province, other 4 being--Punjab, the most populated, Balochistan, the largest one, khyber Pakhtunkhwa bordering Afghanistan and southern Sindh province.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, the Pakistani Army Chief Javed Bajwa and ISI DG Lt Gen Faiz Hameed had a meeting with opposition parties over the issue.

India has said that Pakistan has no legal basis to convert Pakistan occupied Kashmir's Gilgit-Baltistan region as its 5th province and the action will be "void ab initio".

India has said that Pakistan has no legal basis to convert Pakistan occupied Kashmir's Gilgit-Baltistan region as its 5th province and the action will be "void ab initio". Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava in response to a WION question said, “Any action by Pakistan to alter the status of the militarily occupied so-called “Gilgit-Baltistan” has no legal basis whatsoever and is totally void ab-initio." Reiterating its "clear and consistent" position on PoK, MEA said, "The entire territories of the UTs of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been and are an integral part of India and would remain so. Pakistan has no locus standi to comment on India’s internal matters." Pakistan has announced it will conduct elections in PoK's Gilgit-Baltistan area in November. Hectic political activity is taking place in Pakistan over plans to make the area the country's 5th province, other 4 being--Punjab, the most populated, Balochistan, the largest one, khyber Pakhtunkhwa bordering Afghanistan and southern Sindh province. Earlier this week, the Pakistani Army Chief Javed Bajwa and ISI DG Lt Gen Faiz Hameed had a meeting with opposition parties over the issue.

Pakistan has no legal basis to convert Gilgit-Baltistan as its 5th province: India

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, in his first comments since the Moscow pact has said India and China need to adjust to each other rise which has been dominating factor in "diplomacy of both countries"

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar speaking at the world economic forum development impact summit said, India and China need "to accommodate each other's rise. They will have some common interest and many interests which are more individual or nationally centred. And that process of how to adjust to each other when both are rising, to my mind is one of the big issues in the diplomacy of both countries."

Calling "border issues" as "one part of that problem" he said, "we are going through a very unprecedented situation, and if one looks at in a longer-term, this is one facet of larger phenomenon" for which both "India and China have to sit down and find a solution."

Earlier this month both Indian and Chinese foreign minister had first in-person physical meeting amidst the more than four-month-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) crisis. After the 2 hours long meet, both came out with 5-point joint statement calling for easing the situation of the LAC via dialogue, disengagement and maintaining the distance between the troops of 2 countries.

After the meet, the corps commanders of India and China met earlier this week and agreed that build up should be stopped. The was the 6th such meeting and both sides will soon meet for the next round of talks.

MEA spokesperson giving an update on the situation on Thursday said, "The two sides have also decided to strengthen the ground communication to avoid any further misunderstandings and misjudgments, stop sending more troops to the frontline, refrain from unilaterally changing the situation on the ground, and avoid taking any actions that may complicate the situation."

The next meeting of the WMCC or Working Mechanism for Consultation &amp; Coordination is expected to take place soon.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, in his first comments since the Moscow pact has said India and China need to adjust to each other rise which has been dominating factor in "diplomacy of both countries" External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar speaking at the world economic forum development impact summit said, India and China need "to accommodate each other's rise.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, in his first comments since the Moscow pact has said India and China need to adjust to each other rise which has been dominating factor in "diplomacy of both countries" External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar speaking at the world economic forum development impact summit said, India and China need "to accommodate each other's rise. They will have some common interest and many interests which are more individual or nationally centred. And that process of how to adjust to each other when both are rising, to my mind is one of the big issues in the diplomacy of both countries." Calling "border issues" as "one part of that problem" he said, "we are going through a very unprecedented situation, and if one looks at in a longer-term, this is one facet of larger phenomenon" for which both "India and China have to sit down and find a solution." Earlier this month both Indian and Chinese foreign minister had first in-person physical meeting amidst the more than four-month-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) crisis. After the 2 hours long meet, both came out with 5-point joint statement calling for easing the situation of the LAC via dialogue, disengagement and maintaining the distance between the troops of 2 countries. After the meet, the corps commanders of India and China met earlier this week and agreed that build up should be stopped. The was the 6th such meeting and both sides will soon meet for the next round of talks. MEA spokesperson giving an update on the situation on Thursday said, "The two sides have also decided to strengthen the ground communication to avoid any further misunderstandings and misjudgments, stop sending more troops to the frontline, refrain from unilaterally changing the situation on the ground, and avoid taking any actions that may complicate the situation." The next meeting of the WMCC or Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination is expected to take place soon.

India, China need to adjust to each other's rise: S Jaishankar

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